I came back to give Eugene a copy of his picture. He was inside the deli, where he sweeps, mops, and breaks down boxes. He smiled and showed me his new shirt that said "I love Greece Athens."
I have spent the last year, like others in finance, dealing with Greece. The irony of being reminded of this in a Bronx Bodega made me chuckle. Eugene said, "You don't like Athens? I loved it." I explained, and then he told me of his world travels as a Marine, enlisted for sixteen years, from '67 to '83. And so the salute from Eugene: Lover of Greece, Marine, Vietnam Vet.
My first picture and back story here: Eugene
Farlakes, charles le brigand, and 121 other people added this photo to their favorites.
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Malindo Gan 19 months ago | reply
Great portrait capture !
chinasky1 19 months ago | reply
your work is amazing.
Studio d'Xavier 19 months ago | reply
Semper Fi Eugene! Semper Fi.
Wonderful work Chris!
AH in Pgh 19 months ago | reply
Bless him for serving.
solidkulers 19 months ago | reply
my favorite of a great series
photosbychinwe 17 months ago | reply
I have spent a long time looking at your pictures today, Chris, especially the "Faces of Addiction" set. All I can say is that I'm inspired by your portraits and how you treat these people with such dignity by listening and honoring their stories. I love how surprising people are. You REALLY cannot judge a book by its cover, can you? Keep 'em coming.
xine_hodinh 16 months ago | reply
This particular story brought me to tears. I admire your tenacity.
brittyboop 16 months ago | reply
why is he on the streets?
Geeneebear 16 months ago | reply
I proclaim Eugene King of Greece! And he has the crown to prove it.
nchafatelli 16 months ago | reply
I think this photo captured my heart the most. Maybe I am naive, but I truly feel that with our resources, not one person should have to sleep on the streets in the United States, especially our veterans. I understand that there are organizations to help our veterans in times of needs, but what about everyone else? Addicts, prostitutes, anyone.... no matter the circumstance, is deserving of a comfortable bed and warm meal. It breaks my heart to know that America cannot provide enough beds and meals for everyone.
etienneloves 16 months ago | reply
I agree with nchafatelii :( Lost my beloved father to the injuries/poison/cruelty/after effects from the nasty Vietnam War - 10 years I've missed having him). This photo really gets to me - I can see pride, sorrow, and joy all at once - something in his heart can never be taken - he is "the man that he is" a man who holds onto his principles through it all. I love his face! He's a big strong man but tiny when buried in a backdrop of American products. Love his hand made sweatshirt - a perfect metaphor for who he is a vet who speaks the truth and wants to contribute - fix things that will continue to roll over him - but he'll never stop. Go! Go! Go! Wow he's go spirit and you sure captured it!
Shawn,mightyshaw 15 months ago | reply
Long live the king!
zaftig77 14 months ago | reply
Seriously? Gag me with a pitchfork. no, with your camera. You exploited this man and his story to add more indulgence to your privileged life.
chinasky1 14 months ago | reply
lol
Leaving.At.Midnight 14 months ago | reply
Brought me to tears. :)
louisa_catlover 11 months ago | reply
wonderful
nanousis 7 months ago | reply
Greetings from Athens Greece!
japneezcowboy 5 months ago | reply
jrrg15 5 months ago | reply
For me, this is one of the most touching images...
izabunnibuns 3 months ago | reply
I wish I could hug him. I have nothing to say other than "wow" aloud to myself. Thank you for making these people be seen and voices given an audience that is aching to see them find their way to the top again. Whatever that may be for each one, I'm not sure. I just wish them health and support along their path.